plate no. 5256

The model of the sculptor

Mario Sironi, 1924

oilNeoclassicismportraitfigureportraitsculpturewindowboxshadows

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in portraiture, including capturing likeness and rendering form with light and shadow. It also provides practice in simplifying complex shapes and creating a sense of depth with limited color variations.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the main shapes and composition, focusing on proportions and placement of the figure, sculpture, and window.
step 02
Block in the large areas of color, starting with the background and then moving to the figure and sculpture.
step 03
Establish the basic value structure, paying attention to the light and shadow patterns.
step 04
Refine the shapes and details of the figure, focusing on the facial features and the folds of the drapery.
step 05
Add the details of the sculpture, paying attention to the form and texture.
step 06
Work on the window and the box, adding details and refining the colors.
step 07
Adjust the overall composition and value structure to create a cohesive and balanced painting.
step 08
Add final details and highlights to enhance the realism and depth of the painting.

color palette

primary · raw umber · titanium white · ivory black

secondary · ultramarine blue · yellow ochre

Mix various shades of brown and gray by combining raw umber, titanium white, and ivory black. Use ultramarine blue to create cooler shadows and yellow ochre to warm up the skin tones.

techniques